On hero page, before starting the game you choose from 3 different branches. You no longer receive a hero unit and instead, the choice of branch will severely limit the types and numbers of units you can recruit.

After entering the game, you choose at your HQ from a number of options, which can be limited by individual map or game mode. This then immediately decides your entire force for the coming battle. The extreme specialisation of many of the forces means that players will need to rely on each other a lot more.